California Remote Online Notarization Is Now Official: Platform Requirements and How to Get Started

RON Has Arrived in California

With the enactment of Senate Bill 696 (effective January 1, 2024), California joined the majority of U.S. states in authorizing notaries to perform notarial acts through real-time audio-video technology. For notaries looking to expand their reach and modernize their practice, RON represents one of the most significant opportunities in the profession's history.

But before you advertise online notarization services, there are specific requirements you must meet.

Step 1: Register as an Online Notary

Holding a standard California notary commission does not automatically authorize you to perform RON. You must first register with the Secretary of State specifically as an online notary public. Registration involves submitting a form and any required supporting documentation confirming your readiness to comply with the RON statutes.

Step 2: Choose a State-Approved RON Platform

California requires that all remote online notarizations be performed using a Secretary of State-approved technology platform. These platforms must meet specific security and data standards, including:

• Real-time, two-way audio and video communication
• Tamper-evident technology for electronic documents
• Knowledge-Based Authentication (KBA) to verify signer identity
• Credential analysis software to verify government-issued IDs
• Secure storage of recordings and electronic notarial records

Only use platforms that have been reviewed and approved by the Secretary of State. Using an unapproved platform — even one used legally in another state — is a violation of California law.

Step 3: Maintain Your Dual Journal Requirement

Under SB 696, California online notaries must keep two types of journals for each RON session:

• A tangible (paper) sequential journal, just as you would for in-person notarizations
• One or more secure electronic journals provided by or integrated with your RON platform

Both must be maintained for 10 years from the date of the last entry.

Step 4: Understand the Audio-Video Recording Requirement

Each RON session must be recorded in full, including the signer's identity verification process and the performance of the notarial act itself. Recordings must be securely stored and retained alongside your electronic journal records.

Who Can Use RON Services?

Any signer who is able to appear live on audio-video, verify their identity through the approved technology, and execute a document electronically may use RON services. However, not all documents are eligible for electronic execution — certain instruments affecting real property and other sensitive documents may require wet (physical) signatures under separate laws. Always verify document eligibility before proceeding.

The Bottom Line

RON is a genuine expansion of notary authority and opportunity in California — but it comes with meaningful compliance obligations. Notaries who invest the time to register properly, select an approved platform, and understand the dual-journal and recording requirements will be well-positioned to offer a valuable service in an increasingly remote-first world.